If you’re planning a trip to Veneto or are currently visiting, get ready to delight your taste buds with authentic flavors and traditional dishes that are part of a centuries-old culinary history.

Venetian cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and freshness. Its culinary specialties can satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Here are 5 dishes you absolutely must try during your culinary journey in Veneto.

1. Bigoli all’Anatra

This dish embodies the essence of Venetian cuisine. It consists of homemade pasta called “Bigoli,” dressed with a flavorful ragù made from duck meat, local herbs, and a splash of red wine.

The result? A hearty and rich dish that immediately transports you to the heart of Venetian flavors.

2. Risotto al Nero di Seppia

Veneto is known for its high-quality rice. One of the most famous dishes is undoubtedly “Risotto al Nero di Seppia“. This creamy, aromatic risotto is enriched with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive dark color and a bold sea flavor.

It’s served with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a true delight for seafood lovers!

3. Baccalà alla Vicentina

Baccalà is one of the most well-known dishes of Venetian cuisine. The most famous version, “Baccalà alla Vicentina“, is made from dried cod, which is soaked and then slowly stewed with milk, onions, flour, and a touch of olive oil.

The result is tender, succulent fish wrapped in a creamy, rich sauce that wins over every palate.

4. Polenta e Osei

Another iconic dish is “Polenta e Osei“. Polenta has always been a staple of local cuisine. Served hot and soft, it pairs perfectly with game, particularly small birds like thrush or quail, cooked in a savory sauce.

This combination of rustic and authentic flavors is a true cornerstone of Venetian peasant cuisine.

5. Tiramisù

You can’t finish your culinary experience in Veneto without a dessert: the famous Tiramisù! This dessert is made of layers of “savoiardi” soaked in coffee, enriched with a light and delicate mascarpone cream, and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.

An irresistible combination of sweetness, creaminess, and a sophisticated hint of bitterness. Tiramisù is always the best way to end an unforgettable meal in Veneto.